A mobile robot system includes a docking station and a mobile robot. The docking station includes a platform, first and second charging contacts on the platform, and first and second ramp features on the platform. The robot includes a housing, first and second drive wheels, first and second raised charging contacts on a bottom of the housing, and a cleaning module including at least one rotatable cleaning head that extends below the bottom of the housing. The robot is movable from an approach position with the robot spaced apart from a front of the platform to a docked position with the robot on the platform and the docking station charging contacts engaged with the robot charging contacts. As the robot moves from the approach position to the docked position, the robot engages the first and second ramp features and the cleaning mechanism is lifted over the docking station charging contacts.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An evacuation dock for a mobile cleaning robot, the evacuation dock comprising: a platform defining a front portion, a rear portion, a left portion, and a right portion; a first track located on the left portion of the platform and a second track located on the right portion of the platform, the first and second tracks configured to receive wheels of a mobile cleaning robot thereon, and the first track and the second track defining a midpoint between the first track and the second track; first and second raised charging contacts connected to the platform between the first track and the second track; and a vacuum port extending through the platform, the vacuum port laterally offset from the midpoint between the first track and the second track, the vacuum port aligned with the first and second raised charging contacts between the first track and the second track.
This invention relates to automated cleaning systems and addresses the need for efficient and reliable docking and charging of mobile cleaning robots. Specifically, it describes an evacuation dock designed to receive and service a mobile cleaning robot. The dock includes a platform with defined front, rear, left, and right portions. The left and right portions of the platform are equipped with parallel tracks, designed to engage the wheels of a mobile cleaning robot. These tracks are positioned to define a midpoint. Positioned between these tracks, and elevated from the platform, are first and second charging contacts. Further, a vacuum port is integrated into the platform. This vacuum port is positioned laterally offset from the midpoint between the tracks, but it is aligned with the charging contacts, also situated between the tracks. This arrangement facilitates simultaneous charging and debris removal from the robot upon docking.
2. The evacuation dock of claim 1 , wherein the first track includes a first well connected to a rear portion of the first track, and wherein the second track includes a second well connected to a rear portion of the second track, the first well and the second well configured to receive first and second wheels, respectively, of the mobile cleaning robot when the mobile cleaning robot is in a docked position.
An evacuation dock for mobile cleaning robots includes a first track and a second track, each with a well connected to a rear portion. The first well is configured to receive a first wheel of the mobile cleaning robot, and the second well is configured to receive a second wheel of the robot when the robot is in a docked position. The wells are positioned to securely hold the robot's wheels, ensuring stability during docking and undocking. The tracks guide the robot's movement into and out of the dock, while the wells provide precise alignment and support. This design prevents misalignment or instability, which could otherwise occur during the docking process. The wells may be recessed or otherwise shaped to accommodate the robot's wheels, ensuring a snug fit. The dock may also include additional features, such as sensors or mechanical latches, to further secure the robot in place. The system is particularly useful in environments where automated cleaning robots require frequent docking for recharging or maintenance, ensuring efficient and reliable operation.
3. The evacuation dock of claim 2 , wherein the platform includes a central portion extending between the first track and the second track and between the front portion and the rear portion, the vacuum port extending through the central portion.
The invention relates to an evacuation dock system designed for efficiently removing debris or materials from a workspace, particularly in industrial or manufacturing environments where such accumulation can hinder operations. The system addresses the problem of manual debris removal, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and often inefficient, by providing an automated or semi-automated solution that enhances productivity and safety. The evacuation dock includes a platform with a front portion, a rear portion, and a central portion. The platform is supported by a first track and a second track, which guide the movement of the platform. The central portion of the platform spans between the tracks and between the front and rear portions. A vacuum port is integrated into the central portion, allowing for the direct extraction of debris or materials from the workspace. This design ensures that the vacuum port is optimally positioned for efficient suction, minimizing the need for manual intervention. The tracks facilitate controlled movement of the platform, enabling precise positioning of the vacuum port over debris accumulation areas. The system may also include additional features such as adjustable suction power, automated debris collection, or integration with existing vacuum systems to further enhance functionality. The overall design improves workplace efficiency by automating debris removal, reducing downtime, and enhancing safety by minimizing human exposure to hazardous materials.
4. The evacuation dock of claim 3 , further comprising: a first rib extending above a surface of a left side of the central portion; and a second rib extending above a surface of a right side of the central portion, the first rib and the second rib engageable with a cleaning head of the robot to lift the cleaning head when the mobile cleaning robot moves into the docked position.
An evacuation dock for a mobile cleaning robot is designed to facilitate efficient debris collection and cleaning head maintenance. The dock includes a central portion with a debris collection area, where the robot deposits collected debris. To enhance the docking process, the dock features a first rib extending above the surface on the left side of the central portion and a second rib extending above the surface on the right side. These ribs are positioned to engage with the cleaning head of the robot when it moves into the docked position. Upon engagement, the ribs lift the cleaning head, ensuring proper alignment and secure docking. This mechanism prevents debris spillage and ensures efficient debris transfer from the robot to the dock. The ribs may also assist in guiding the robot into the correct docking position, improving operational reliability. The dock may further include a debris collection bin beneath the central portion to store the transferred debris, which can be periodically emptied for maintenance. The design ensures seamless integration with the robot's cleaning cycle, reducing downtime and enhancing overall cleaning efficiency.
5. The evacuation dock of claim 4 , wherein each of the first rib and the second rib include: a raised flat surface; a first sloped surface extending raised flat surface downwardly toward the front portion of the platform; and a second sloped surface extending downwardly from the raised flat surface toward the rear portion of the platform.
This invention relates to an evacuation dock designed for emergency egress from a structure, such as a building or vessel, particularly in situations where traditional exits are inaccessible. The dock addresses the need for a stable, user-friendly platform that facilitates safe and efficient evacuation, especially in high-stress scenarios where individuals may lack time or clarity to navigate complex structures. The evacuation dock features a platform with a front portion and a rear portion, supported by a first rib and a second rib. Each rib includes a raised flat surface that provides a stable standing area for users. The first rib and second rib each have a first sloped surface extending downward from the raised flat surface toward the front portion of the platform, aiding in guiding users toward the exit. Additionally, each rib includes a second sloped surface extending downward from the raised flat surface toward the rear portion of the platform, ensuring balanced support and preventing tripping hazards. The sloped surfaces help direct movement and reduce the risk of falls during evacuation. The design ensures structural integrity while optimizing user safety and ease of use in emergency situations.
6. The evacuation dock of claim 4 , wherein the first rib is located at an interface between the central portion and a left portion of the platform, the left portion of the platform including the first track.
This invention relates to an evacuation dock system designed for emergency egress from a structure, such as a building or vessel. The system addresses the need for a reliable, rapid evacuation solution in high-risk environments where traditional exits may be compromised. The dock includes a platform with a central portion and at least one side portion, each equipped with tracks to guide movement. The platform is supported by a series of ribs that enhance structural integrity and stability during deployment. A key feature is the placement of a first rib at the interface between the central portion and a left portion of the platform, where the left portion contains a track. This rib reinforces the connection between these sections, ensuring smooth operation and preventing misalignment during use. The dock may also include additional ribs and tracks to facilitate controlled descent or extension, depending on the specific application. The system is particularly useful in maritime or industrial settings where quick evacuation is critical. The rib placement optimizes load distribution and structural support, improving safety and reliability in emergency scenarios.
7. The evacuation dock of claim 3 , wherein the central portion includes a raised surface and a first sloped surface extending downwardly from the raised surface toward the front portion of the platform.
This invention relates to an evacuation dock designed for emergency egress from a structure, particularly in scenarios where rapid and safe evacuation is critical. The primary problem addressed is the need for an efficient and accessible evacuation path that minimizes obstacles and ensures stability during use. The evacuation dock includes a platform with a front portion and a central portion. The central portion features a raised surface to provide a stable standing area, along with a first sloped surface that extends downward from the raised surface toward the front portion. This sloped surface facilitates smooth and controlled movement toward the front of the platform, reducing the risk of tripping or falling during evacuation. The design ensures that users can transition quickly and safely from the raised central area to the front portion, which may lead to an exit or further evacuation path. The combination of the raised and sloped surfaces optimizes the dock's functionality by balancing stability with ease of movement, making it suitable for high-stress evacuation scenarios. The invention may be used in buildings, vehicles, or other structures where emergency exits are required.
8. The evacuation dock of claim 7 , wherein the first charging contact and the second charging contact are located on the raised surface of the central portion of the platform.
The invention relates to an evacuation dock designed for emergency situations, particularly for facilitating the rapid deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or other emergency response equipment. The dock addresses the challenge of quickly launching and charging UAVs in disaster scenarios where infrastructure may be compromised. The dock includes a platform with a central portion elevated above surrounding areas, ensuring stability and protection from water or debris. The central portion supports first and second charging contacts, which are positioned on the raised surface to enable efficient charging of UAVs or other devices. These contacts are strategically placed to allow seamless docking and power transfer, ensuring that emergency equipment remains operational during prolonged response efforts. The design prioritizes accessibility and durability, making it suitable for deployment in harsh or unstable environments. The dock may also include additional features such as stabilization mechanisms or communication interfaces to enhance functionality. The overall system ensures that emergency response assets are ready for immediate use, improving response times and operational efficiency in critical situations.
9. The evacuation dock of claim 8 , wherein the vacuum port extends through the raised surface of the central portion of the platform.
This invention relates to an evacuation dock system designed to facilitate the rapid and controlled removal of water or other fluids from a platform, such as a marine or industrial structure. The primary problem addressed is the need for an efficient and reliable method to evacuate fluids from a platform, particularly in emergency or high-volume scenarios where traditional drainage systems may be insufficient. The evacuation dock includes a platform with a central portion that is raised relative to surrounding areas, creating a sloped surface to direct fluid flow toward a central collection point. A vacuum port is integrated into the raised surface of the central portion, allowing for active suction-based fluid removal. This design ensures that fluids are quickly and effectively drawn away from the platform, preventing pooling or overflow. The vacuum port may be connected to an external vacuum system or pump to enhance evacuation efficiency. The raised central portion and sloped design optimize fluid collection, while the vacuum port provides a direct and powerful means of extraction. This system is particularly useful in marine environments, industrial settings, or any application requiring rapid fluid evacuation to maintain structural integrity or operational safety. The invention improves upon prior art by combining passive fluid guidance with active suction, ensuring both rapid and controlled evacuation.
10. The evacuation dock of claim 1 , further comprising: a debris bin connected to the rear portion of the platform, the vacuum port connected to the debris bin by a duct.
The invention relates to an evacuation dock system designed to remove debris from a work area, particularly in industrial or construction environments where material accumulation poses operational or safety hazards. The system includes a platform with a vacuum port that collects debris, which is then transported through a duct to a debris bin located at the rear of the platform. The debris bin is directly connected to the platform, ensuring efficient debris collection and storage. The vacuum port generates suction to draw in debris, which is then conveyed through the duct to the bin, preventing clutter and maintaining a clean work environment. The system may also include additional features such as adjustable suction power, automated debris compaction, or remote control capabilities to enhance functionality. The primary problem addressed is the need for an effective and automated debris removal solution that minimizes manual intervention and improves workplace safety and efficiency. The invention ensures continuous debris collection without frequent manual emptying, reducing downtime and labor costs. The system is particularly useful in environments where debris accumulation is frequent, such as manufacturing plants, warehouses, or construction sites.
11. An evacuation dock for a mobile cleaning robot, the evacuation dock comprising: a platform defining a front portion, a rear portion, a left portion, and a right portion; a first track located on the left portion of the platform and a second track located on the right portion of the platform, the first and second tracks configured to receive wheels of a mobile cleaning robot thereon; first and second raised charging contacts connected to the platform between the first track and the second track; a vacuum port extending through the platform; a first rib extending upward from a left side of the platform; and a second rib extending upward from a right side of the platform, the first and second ribs engageable with a cleaning head of the robot to lift rollers of the cleaning head over and past the charging contacts when the mobile cleaning robot moves into a docked position.
The invention relates to an evacuation dock for a mobile cleaning robot, designed to facilitate docking, charging, and waste evacuation. The dock includes a platform with front, rear, left, and right portions. On the left and right portions of the platform are tracks configured to guide the robot's wheels into position. Between these tracks are raised charging contacts that align with the robot's charging interface when docked. A vacuum port in the platform allows for waste evacuation from the robot. The dock also features ribs on the left and right sides of the platform. These ribs engage with the robot's cleaning head, lifting its rollers over and past the charging contacts as the robot moves into the docked position. This ensures proper alignment for charging and waste transfer while preventing interference from the cleaning head's rollers. The design optimizes the docking process by integrating charging and waste evacuation functions into a single, compact structure.
12. The evacuation dock of claim 11 , wherein the platform includes a central portion extending between the first track and the second track and between the front portion and the rear portion, the vacuum port extending through the central portion.
An evacuation dock system is designed to facilitate the safe and efficient removal of individuals from a hazardous environment, such as a spacecraft or underwater habitat. The system addresses the challenge of quickly and securely transferring personnel while minimizing exposure to external risks. The dock includes a platform with a front portion, a rear portion, a first track, and a second track. The platform supports movement of a transport mechanism, such as a sled or cart, along the tracks to convey personnel from the hazardous environment to a safe area. The platform also features a central portion that spans between the tracks and between the front and rear portions. A vacuum port is integrated into the central portion, allowing for the removal of air or other gases from the platform area. This vacuum port can be used to create a controlled environment, such as a vacuum or low-pressure zone, to assist in the evacuation process. The system may also include additional features, such as seals or barriers, to ensure the integrity of the evacuation path. The overall design ensures that personnel can be moved efficiently while maintaining safety and operational reliability.
13. The evacuation dock of claim 12 , wherein the first rib extends above a surface of a left side of the central portion, and wherein the second rib extends above a surface of a right side of the central portion.
An evacuation dock system is designed to facilitate rapid and safe evacuation of personnel from a vessel or structure in emergency situations. The system includes a central portion with ribs extending from its sides to enhance stability and structural integrity during use. The first rib extends above the surface of the left side of the central portion, while the second rib extends above the surface of the right side. These ribs provide additional support and prevent lateral movement, ensuring the dock remains securely in place during evacuation. The ribs may also assist in guiding personnel toward the dock or preventing accidental slips. The central portion serves as the primary platform for evacuation, and the ribs reinforce its structural stability, particularly when subjected to dynamic loads or uneven forces. The design ensures the dock can withstand the weight and movement of multiple individuals during an emergency, reducing the risk of collapse or failure. The ribs may be integrated into the dock's construction or attached as separate components, depending on the specific application. The system is particularly useful in maritime or industrial environments where rapid evacuation is critical.
14. The evacuation dock of claim 13 , wherein each of the first rib and the second rib include: a raised flat surface; a first sloped surface extending from the raised flat surface downwardly toward the front portion of the platform; and a second sloped surface extending downwardly from the raised flat surface toward the rear portion of the platform.
This invention relates to an evacuation dock designed for emergency egress from a structure, such as a building or vessel, where rapid and safe evacuation is critical. The dock addresses the problem of providing a stable, non-slip surface that facilitates quick movement while preventing tripping or slipping during evacuation. The dock includes a platform with a front portion and a rear portion, where the front portion is positioned closer to the structure being evacuated. The platform is supported by a frame, and the dock may be configured to deploy from a stowed position to an extended position for use during an emergency. The dock features a first rib and a second rib extending along the platform. Each rib includes a raised flat surface that provides a stable walking surface. A first sloped surface extends downward from the raised flat surface toward the front portion of the platform, aiding in directing movement toward the exit. A second sloped surface extends downward from the raised flat surface toward the rear portion of the platform, preventing tripping and ensuring smooth movement. The ribs enhance traction and stability, reducing the risk of falls during evacuation. The design ensures that users can quickly and safely transition from the structure to the dock without obstruction.
15. The evacuation dock of claim 14 , wherein the first rib is located at an interface between the central portion and a left portion of the platform, the left portion of the platform including the first track.
This invention relates to an evacuation dock system designed for emergency egress from a structure, such as a building or vessel, to a safe area. The system addresses the need for a reliable, rapid, and controlled evacuation method in high-risk environments where traditional exits may be compromised. The evacuation dock includes a platform with a central portion and at least one side portion, each equipped with tracks to guide movement. The dock is configured to slide or extend outward from the structure, allowing occupants to safely transition to a lower level or external rescue point. A key feature is the inclusion of ribs reinforcing the platform, particularly at critical interfaces between sections. The first rib is positioned at the junction between the central portion and a left portion of the platform, which contains the first track. This rib enhances structural integrity, ensuring stability during deployment and use. The system may also include additional ribs, tracks, and mechanisms to facilitate smooth operation and load distribution. The design prioritizes durability, ease of use, and adaptability to various structural configurations, making it suitable for high-rise buildings, offshore platforms, or other environments requiring emergency evacuation solutions.
16. The evacuation dock of claim 11 , wherein the first track and the second track define a midpoint between the first track and the second track, and wherein the vacuum port is laterally offset from the midpoint.
An evacuation dock system is designed to facilitate the removal of debris or material from a workspace, such as a manufacturing or processing environment. The system includes a movable platform that can be positioned to collect and transport material away from the workspace. The platform is guided along a pair of parallel tracks, which define a central midpoint between them. A vacuum port is integrated into the platform to create suction for material removal. The vacuum port is positioned laterally offset from the midpoint between the tracks, allowing for optimized material collection based on the workspace layout or debris distribution. This offset design ensures efficient evacuation while maintaining stability and alignment along the tracks. The system may also include additional features such as adjustable suction control, automated movement mechanisms, or sensors to detect material accumulation. The offset vacuum port placement improves coverage and reduces the need for multiple passes, enhancing overall efficiency in material removal operations.
17. An evacuation system for a mobile cleaning robot, the system comprising: a platform defining a front portion, a rear portion, a left portion, and a right portion; a first track located on the left portion of the platform and a second track located on the right portion of the platform, the first and second tracks configured to receive wheels of a mobile cleaning robot thereon; first and second raised charging contacts connected to the platform between the first track and the second track; a vacuum port extending through the platform and laterally aligned with the first and second raised charging contacts between the first track and the second track; and a debris bin connected to the rear portion of the platform, the vacuum port connected to the debris bin by a duct.
The invention relates to an evacuation system for mobile cleaning robots, addressing the challenge of efficiently collecting debris while charging. The system includes a platform with front, rear, left, and right portions. Two parallel tracks are positioned on the left and right sides of the platform to guide the robot's wheels, ensuring proper alignment during docking. Between the tracks, raised charging contacts are mounted to provide power to the robot while it is docked. A vacuum port is centrally located between the tracks and aligned with the charging contacts, allowing the robot to connect to a vacuum source for debris removal. The vacuum port is connected to a debris bin situated at the rear of the platform via a duct, enabling the collected debris to be stored in the bin. This design integrates charging and debris evacuation into a single docking station, streamlining the robot's maintenance process. The system ensures efficient debris collection while the robot is stationary, improving cleaning performance and reducing downtime.
18. The system of claim 17 , wherein the platform includes a central portion extending between the first track and the second track and between the front portion and the rear portion, the vacuum port extending through the central portion.
This invention relates to a system for handling and processing substrates, such as semiconductor wafers or glass panels, in a cleanroom environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently moving substrates between processing stations while maintaining precise alignment and minimizing contamination. The system includes a platform with a first track and a second track, each configured to support and guide a substrate carrier. The platform also has a front portion and a rear portion, which may include mechanisms for loading, unloading, or securing the substrate carrier. A vacuum port is integrated into the platform to facilitate substrate handling, such as lifting or securing the substrate during transfer. The central portion of the platform extends between the tracks and between the front and rear portions, providing structural support and housing the vacuum port. This design ensures stable substrate movement and precise positioning, which is critical for high-precision manufacturing processes. The system may also include additional features, such as sensors or actuators, to enhance automation and accuracy in substrate handling. The invention improves efficiency and reliability in substrate processing by integrating vacuum-assisted handling into a modular platform design.
19. The system of claim 18 , further comprising: a first rib extending above a surface of a left side of the central portion; and a second rib extending above a surface of a right side of the central portion, the first and second ribs engageable with a cleaning head of the robot to lift the cleaning head when the mobile cleaning robot moves into a docked position.
This invention relates to a docking system for a mobile cleaning robot, specifically addressing the challenge of securely lifting and engaging a cleaning head when the robot moves into a docked position. The system includes a docking station with a central portion designed to interface with the robot. To facilitate proper alignment and engagement, the docking station features a first rib extending above the surface on the left side of the central portion and a second rib extending above the surface on the right side. These ribs are positioned to interact with the cleaning head of the robot, lifting it as the robot moves into the docked position. This ensures the cleaning head is properly positioned for maintenance, charging, or other docking functions. The ribs may be fixed or adjustable to accommodate different robot designs or cleaning head configurations. The system enhances docking reliability by providing mechanical guidance and support, preventing misalignment or damage during the docking process. The invention is particularly useful in automated cleaning environments where consistent and efficient docking is critical for maintaining operational efficiency.
20. The system of claim 19 , wherein each of the first rib and the second rib include: a raised flat surface; a first sloped surface extending from the raised flat surface downwardly toward the front portion of the platform; and a second sloped surface extending downwardly from the raised flat surface toward the rear portion of the platform.
This invention relates to a system for supporting and stabilizing a platform, such as a work surface or a medical table, using a ribbed structure. The system addresses the problem of maintaining stability and load distribution on a platform, particularly when subjected to uneven forces or dynamic loads. The platform is supported by a base structure that includes multiple ribs extending along its length. Each rib has a raised flat surface positioned centrally, with two sloped surfaces extending downward from opposite sides of the raised surface. The first sloped surface angles downward toward the front portion of the platform, while the second sloped surface angles downward toward the rear portion. This design ensures balanced load distribution, prevents tilting, and enhances structural rigidity. The ribs may be integrated into the base or attached as separate components. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring stability under varying loads, such as medical examination tables, workbenches, or industrial platforms. The ribbed structure improves durability and reduces stress concentrations, extending the lifespan of the platform.
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July 30, 2020
April 5, 2022
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